Glen Arum Farm, Self Catering Accommodation in Balgowan, kwaZulu Natal Midlands |
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HISTORY OF GLEN ARUM FARM This house built in 1908, has instant appeal not only for its own charm but also because it is set in a lovely garden shaded by tulip trees and old oaks. This garden is particularly beautiful in spring. One hopes that it was in this season that the visit of prince Edward Prince of Wales took place. Liz Potter, the present owner, has retained the aura of light, warmth and hospitality that was characteristic of GLEN ARUM when it was the home of Dr. Jean (John) Laurent Rouillard and his family.
The white plastered walls are broken at the front entrance by very large gold coloured oregon pine doors and the deep grey stone foundations guard the cool cellars which were so often a feature of farm houses of the last century when abundant hospitality was so important a factor in social life. For it was in the cellar that the home cured hams and sides of bacon would hang, while the shelves would be packed with varieties of stored apples, cheeses and wine in demi-johns. The tantalizing aromas of these delectable, once experienced, are not easily forgotten. Dr. Rouillard was born in Mauritius, the brilliant son of Justice John Rouillard and Edmee de Chaazal. He was a Cambridge graduate and trained at St Thomas’s hospital in London. He practiced medicine in Durban and after his marriage to Marie Loise Mitchell-Innes bought land at Balgowan. The Rouillards were famed for their hospitality, seven course dinners being the norm, presided over by the Mauritian-born major-demo, Polydore. When the Rouillards daughter-in-law moved to GLEN ARUM the tradition of excellent cuisine continued when paying guests queued to be entertained there.” Taken from “Chimneys in the Clouds” (An overview of many of the historic buildings in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands (1845-1925) by D.N. Dorning, Brevitas 1997 Down in the Glen"It is rare to find a weekend cottage in places as exquisitely situated as Glen Arum. Three cottages held in the embrace of high, green Midlands hill country, the wind sighing in the pines and sunlight sparkling off the water of the dam. As owner Liz Potter will tell you, all the undeniable attractions of the Midlands Meander are nearby, but you may find the attractions of Glen Arum – lying by the pool and or warming up in front of your own log fire after early evening tramps over the hills – hard to leave. Then why would you? This place is for relaxing and feeling the country. There are 3 cottages available. It’s also a self-caterning affair but some fine restaurants are just a short drive away. The quickest way there is off the N3 at Nottingham Road and then southwards along the R103. Liz will fax you a map when you book. Phone (033) 234-4425." By Paul Ash, “Out There” Magazine May 2000 page 75 |
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